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Lakeland University

Plymouth, WI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1862
Founded
Private university
Type
1,230
Total Students
1,787
Undergrad
724
Graduate
$18M
Endowment
(2025)
$32K
Tuition (In-State)
$32K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
91%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
6-year
67%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Beth Borgen

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Lakeland University

Lakeland University: A private institution blending rich history with innovative co-op learning.

Lakeland University, established in 1862, offers a rich history rooted in the dedication of German immigrants. What began as Missionshaus—a unique academy-college-seminary—has evolved into a dynamic private university known for its innovative approach to education. Lakeland is particularly recognized for pioneering Wisconsin's first degree-completion program for working adults in 1978, a testament to its long-standing commitment to accessible learning.

Today, Lakeland stands out with its groundbreaking cooperative education model, launched in 2017. This unique program allows students to gain 12-18 months of invaluable professional work experience with local companies, providing not only practical skills but also the potential to earn over $100,000, significantly minimizing post-graduate debt. This focus on experiential learning truly prepares students for successful careers in an evolving global landscape.

The university's academic structure comprises three specialized schools: the School of Business & Entrepreneurship, the School of Science, Technology & Education, and the School of Humanities and Fine Arts. With a total enrollment of 2,511 students, including over 2,000 in its flexible Evening, Weekend & Online program, Lakeland serves a diverse student body both on its Wisconsin campus and at its overseas campus in Tokyo, Japan. Lakeland University continues to build on its legacy of innovation, offering a distinctive and career-focused educational experience.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1862, offering over 160 years of educational heritage.
  • Pioneered Wisconsin's first degree-completion program for working adults in 1978.
  • Innovative cooperative education model (launched 2017) allows students to gain 12-18 months of professional experience and potentially earn over $100,000.
  • Enrollment of 2,511 students as a private university, with over 2,000 in its Evening, Weekend & Online program.
  • Established an international campus in Tokyo, Japan, in 1991, recognized as an overseas campus since 2005.
  • Comprises three distinct academic schools: Business & Entrepreneurship; Science, Technology & Education; and Humanities and Fine Arts.

Timeline

1862
Founded as Missionshaus (Mission House), a combined academy-college-seminary.
1956
Adopted the name Lakeland College and began focusing on a liberal arts education.
1962
The seminary combined with Yankton Theological School to become United Theological Seminary and relocated.
1978
Launched Wisconsin’s first degree-completion program for working adults with evening classes.
1991
Founded a campus in Tokyo, Japan.
2005
Tokyo campus recognized as an overseas campus, allowing it to sponsor student visas.
2016
Lakeland College became Lakeland University, establishing three new schools and academic offerings.
2017
Launched a cooperative education model, allowing students to gain 12–18 months of professional work experience and earn over $100,000.
🏛️
164 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Lakeland University

💼

School of Business & Entrepreneurship

Dedicated to fostering business acumen and innovative leadership.

📚

School of Science, Technology & Education

Focuses on critical fields in science, technology, and preparing future educators.

🎭

School of Humanities and Fine Arts

Explores diverse human experiences, creativity, and cultural understanding.

Leadership

Beth Borgen
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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